Triple H May Have Conspired Against Goldberg For 25-Year-Old Grudge

Goldberg’s career came to an end at WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event in Atlanta on July 12.

In front of his hometown crowd, the Hall of Famer faced Gunther in what was billed as his final match and was ultimately defeated by submission.

After the main event, Da Man delivered an emotional farewell speech in the ring, surrounded by his family and several WCW legends. But for fans watching at home, the moment never aired. Now, some are wondering why.

Vince Russo Suggests Goldberg’s Farewell Was Politically Shortened

On a recent episode of Behind the Turnbuckle Studios, former WWE writer Vince Russo offered a theory that added fuel to speculation. According to Russo, the decision to keep Goldberg’s post-match farewell off television may not have been a simple broadcast timing issue; it could have been personal.

Russo believes Triple H may have intentionally shortened Goldberg’s farewell moment because of this long-standing WCW vs. WWE rivalry, which dates back almost 25 years to WCW’s peak in 1999–2000.

“I still think there were maybe a little bit of politics involved when he did not finish that speech on live television,” Russo said. “I still think when it comes to old school wrestlers like Triple H, I still believe it’s a WWE, WCW thing. I still believe that.”

Russo referenced how other former WCW stars have been treated, including Sting, and pointed to the lingering rivalry that has existed between the two companies, even decades after WCW’s demise. He then

“Coach, look at what happened. Look at what happened to Sting. Look at what happened to Sting when he was there,” Russo joked, before adding that grudges in the wrestling world can last forever. “Let’s not forget… Goldberg played a huge part in that 83-week run [of WCW dominance]. They don’t forget things like that, Coach.” [24:39 – 26:20]

The comment reflects a common perception in wrestling circles: that some within WWE’s leadership still carry resentment from the Monday Night Wars era. And while Triple H has publicly shown respect for many WCW alumni, some insiders believe there’s still a divide between WWE originals and former WCW icons.

Goldberg, after all, was one of the biggest stars in WCW history during their famed ratings run. His role in that success, and WWE’s eventual acquisition of WCW, remains part of wrestling lore.

If you use any quotes from this article, please credit the original source and then h/t with a link back to TJR Wrestling for the transcription.